Dukes balls pulled ahead of IND vs ENG 4th Test after quality concerns raised

The England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) plans to collect used Dukes balls from the ongoing India vs England Test series for inspection, following mounting criticism. Dukes ball manufacturer Dilip Jajodia, who initially downplayed the concerns, has now agreed to a thorough review of the ball’s production process.

Previously, Jajodia stated that making the ball harder might risk "broken fingers" for fielders. However, after continuous complaints from players about the ball going soft and losing shape within 30 overs, he has reversed his stance. In a recent BBC interview, Jajodia said the company will now evaluate every aspect of the manufacturing process—including raw materials and leather tanning.

“We will take it away, inspect and then start talking to the tanner, talking about all of the raw materials—everything,” he said. “Everything we do will be reviewed, and then if we think some changes need to be made or tightened up, we will.”

This decision comes amid growing frustration from both teams, as the quality and consistency of the Dukes ball have become a key issue in the Test series.